Cassville’s conference to realign in 2024

By Kyle Troutman ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com

After six years of 14 schools in the Big 8 Conference, member schools in 2024 will be closer to the charter number.

In late September, Hollister, Reeds Spring and Springfield Catholic agreed to join the Mid-Lakes Conference, and last week, Marshfield and Logan-Rogersville opted to join the newly formed six-school Ozark Mountain Conference. 

The exits leave the Big 8 at nine schools for next year, and conference members say it will stay that way.

“The nine remaining school districts are committed to continuing the proud tradition of the Big 8 Conference,” a press release said. “History has shown the Big 8 as open to welcoming new members. However, at this time, conference members do not feel there is an obvious demographic and geographic fit to pursue as a tenth member and will remain at nine members in the foreseeable future.

“The Big 8 Conference has enjoyed a proud tradition of excellence in both academics and athletics since its inception in 1928. Over the years, the number of member districts has fluctuated but the commitment to a collaborative spirit and passionate competition has remained consistent.”

Six schools joined the Conference in 2017, the five that have announced their intention to leave, plus Nevada, the only one of the six to remain.

“Members of the Big 8 have enjoyed our six years’ of partnership with Hollister, Logan-Rogersville, Marshfield, Reeds Spring and Springfield Catholic, and we wish them the very best as they move forward in new conferences,” the Big 8 press release said. 

The nine members of the Big 8 moving forward include: Aurora, charter member since 1928; Cassville, member since 1954; East Newton, member since 1976; Lamar, charter member since 1928; McDonald County, member from 1976-1982, rejoining in 2012; Monett, charter member since 1928; Mount Vernon, charter member since 1928; Nevada, member from 1928-1982, rejoining in 2017; and Seneca, member since 1976.